'Diamonds in the Rough' raises funds
for Parkinson's research

By L. PIERCE CARSON
Register Staff Writer, Napa Valley Register

Friday, October 19, 2007

Boots Brounstein with Tovah Feldshuh and Dr. William Langston of the Parkinson's Institute in Sunnyvale, CA

Diamonds in the Rough, vintner Boots Brounstein’s annual fundraiser aimed at finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease, raised more than $100,000 last weekend for the Parkinson’s Institute in Sunnyvale.

Lauded for “helping lead the battle against this debilitating disease,” Brounstein hosted four dozen guests at a wine dinner gala at Calistoga’s Diamond Creek Vineyards, the acclaimed wine brand she founded along with her late husband, Al, who waged a valiant battle against Parkinson’s disease for more than two decades. Al Brounstein succumbed last year at 86 to complications caused by Parkinson’s disease.

Recalling the popular vintner’s “courage in his battle against this disabling disease,” Bill Langston, founder and chief scientific officer of the Parkinson’s Institute, applauded his widow for hosting the annual fundraiser.

“You are making a difference in the lives of millions,” Dr. Langston told Boots Brounstein as enthusiastic guests and event volunteers offered up a hearty round of applause. Dr. Langston said the institute has moved into new quarters, allowing for expansion of research efforts in search of a cure for Parkinson’s disease.

Boots with Chefs Hiro Sone & Lisa Doumani of Terra Restaurant in St. Helena, CA and Ame' in san Francisco, CA

A playful nautical theme designed by Roy Corro, of St. Helena Florist, greeted guests who were treated to a wine reception and dinner created by Hiro Sone and Lissa Doumani, chef/proprietors of St. Helena’s Terra and Ame in San Francisco, who volunteered their services for the event.

Guests were entertained by actress/singer Tovah Feldshuh, a regular on NBC-TV’s longest running drama, “Law and Order.”

“Al would have had a blast with Tovah,” Boots Brounstein said of the well-received cabaret show presented by the entertainers who had flown to the West Coast to donate their services for the fundraiser.

“People are so generous,” Brounstein said of guests, volunteers, fellow vintners, dinner staff and entertainers who came together to make the event a success. “I think we all agree that we’re very close to finding a cure for Parkinson’s and, who knows, maybe the money raised last Saturday night will take us there. I am very thankful for all the help, including our winery staff, all who donate time and money for this cause.”